Scott Goodwin Law P.C.Scott Goodwin Law P.C.2026-08-25T16:20:11Zhttps://www.1888goodwin.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1303947/2024/11/cropped-scott-site-icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Scott Goodwin Law P.C.<![CDATA[Can you sue the owner if the dog you were walking bit you?]]>https://www.1888goodwin.com/?p=499662026-07-28T10:04:34Z2026-08-04T12:00:14ZFor many dog walkers, trust is part of the job. Owners trust someone else to care for a beloved pet, while the person holding the leash trusts that the dog is safe to handle. Most walks end without incident, but when the dog suddenly bites the very person responsible for caring for it, that trust can disappear in an instant. Along with painful injuries, the experience leaves people wondering whether they have any legal rights against the dog's owner. In Michigan, the answer may depend on the circumstances, but state law may allow an injured dog walker to seek compensation.
Michigan's dog bite law may still apply
Many people assume that agreeing to walk someone else's dog also means accepting the risk of being bitten. While that belief is common, it does not automatically reflect how Michigan law works.Michigan law often holds dog owners accountable when their pets cause injuries. This responsibility may apply even when the dog has no prior history of biting or aggressive behavior. Dog walking, however, can add important facts to the discussion. Whether the walk was part of a paid job, a favor for a friend or another arrangement may affect how a claim is evaluated. The owner's knowledge of the dog's behavior, the circumstances leading up to the bite and the available insurance coverage may also influence the case. Because every situation is different, it is important to evaluate the facts rather than assume the injury was simply an occupational risk.
What factors can affect a claim?
A successful personal injury claim often depends on the details surrounding the incident. Some of the questions that may help determine whether compensation is available include:
Whether the dog walker was lawfully caring for the dog
Whether the dog was provoked before the bite
The extent of the injuries and medical treatment required
Whether photographs, witness statements or medical records support the claim
Whether homeowners or renters insurance may provide coverage for the owner's liability
Gathering this information soon after the incident can help preserve valuable evidence and provide a clearer picture of the available legal options.Understanding how these factors fit together can make it easier to determine the next steps after a dog bite injury.
Taking the right steps after a dog bite
A dog bite can change the way someone feels about work, animals and even everyday routines. Beyond the immediate injury, the costs of medical care and time away from work can create lasting challenges. Michigan law may offer a path to compensation, but the outcome often depends on the facts surrounding the incident. Speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney can help clarify those facts, answer important questions and provide guidance tailored to the circumstances of the case. ]]>On Behalf of Scott Goodwin Law P.C.<![CDATA[A record verdict that reflects years of preparation]]>https://www.1888goodwin.com/?p=499722026-07-31T09:03:33Z2026-07-31T08:52:13ZWhen you suffer a serious injury in a crash, you may wonder if the legal system can truly hold the responsible party accountable. Every personal injury case follows its own path, and no two outcomes look exactly alike. Still, careful preparation, compelling evidence and a clear presentation of the facts could make a meaningful difference when your case reaches a jury.
That commitment recently helped produce a historic result for Goodwin Law Group. Working alongside Jon Marko Law, attorney Scott Goodwin helped secure an $896.5 million jury verdict in a catastrophic test track crash case after nearly three years of preparation. The verdict stands among the largest personal injury awards in Michigan history and reflects the dedication, strategy and persistence that complex cases often demand.
Why years of preparation mattered
Serious injury cases rarely come together in a matter of weeks. They often involve extensive investigations, thousands of pages of records, expert analysis and careful trial preparation. Every piece of evidence may help explain what happened and how an injury changed a person's life.Throughout this case, the legal team remained focused on several important goals:
Conducting a thorough investigation that developed the facts over several years.
Working with experts to explain the cause of the crash and the extent of the injuries.
Preparing every stage of the case with the expectation that it could proceed to trial.
That level of preparation may help a jury fully evaluate both the immediate and long term effects of a catastrophic injury. It also shows why many complex cases require patience before they reach a resolution.
What this verdict may mean for your injury claim
Every injury claim depends on its own facts, evidence and legal issues. A record verdict does not predict the outcome of another case. Instead, it shows that juries may award substantial damages when the evidence supports the claims and clearly demonstrates the harm a person has suffered.Michigan law allows injured people to pursue compensation when another party's negligence causes an injury. Under Michigan law, a court may consider each party's percentage of fault when determining damages. That legal framework makes a careful investigation and a well prepared case especially important.If you would like to learn more about your legal options after a serious crash, visit the firm's motor vehicle injury page to explore how personal injury claims may proceed under Michigan law.
A milestone that reflects commitment and teamwork
This historic verdict represents much more than a record setting number. It reflects nearly three years of hard work, collaboration and careful preparation on behalf of a client whose story deserved to be heard. Goodwin Law Group is proud to have worked alongside Jon Marko Law to achieve this result and to demonstrate what thoughtful advocacy may accomplish in the courtroom. Although every case presents unique circumstances and no result can guarantee another, this verdict serves as a powerful example of the value of persistence, preparation and a commitment to presenting every client's case with care.]]>On Behalf of Scott Goodwin Law P.C.<![CDATA[All this was my case teamed up with Jon Marko firm and this was three years of grit and prep]]>https://www.1888goodwin.com/?p=499672026-07-30T07:11:28Z2026-07-30T07:10:09Z]]>On Behalf of Scott Goodwin Law P.C.<![CDATA[Handling your teenager’s car accident claim in Michigan]]>https://www.1888goodwin.com/?p=499642026-07-22T15:42:15Z2026-07-22T15:39:13ZImmediate steps for parents at the scene
When you arrive at the crash site, you must manage your child's emotions and the legal details. Your teenager will likely feel shaken, so taking control of the situation helps you prevent costly mistakes. You can guide your child through several specific actions before leaving the scene:
Secure a police report: Ask officers to document the crash to establish an official record.
Limit conversations: Tell your teen to answer police questions honestly but avoid apologizing or discussing fault.
Document the damage: Take clear photos of all vehicles and skid marks.
Collect witness details: Gather names and phone numbers from anyone who saw the crash happen.
These steps preserve evidence that insurance adjusters require during their investigation. Gathering this information early makes the claims process much smoother for your family.
How Michigan no-fault laws cover minors
Paying for medical care after a crash involves state insurance rules under the Michigan no-fault system. Under this system, your policy covers medical bills regardless of who caused the crash. For teenagers living at home, this coverage is included in your policy. Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits pay for your child's medical expenses and rehabilitation.
The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services outlines how these PIP benefits apply to resident relatives. Filing a PIP claim quickly directs hospitals to bill your auto insurance instead of demanding out-of-pocket payments. This system protects your family from sudden medical debt while your child recovers.
Liability and comparative negligence rules
Beyond medical bills, you must address vehicle damage and fault disputes. If the other driver blames your teenager, the state applies a rule called comparative negligence. This legal standard assigns a percentage of fault to each driver involved in the crash.
If an investigation finds your teen partially responsible, the law reduces their potential compensation. Disputing an inaccurate fault assignment protects your child from taking the blame for the actions of another driver. A clear understanding of the crash details helps you counter inaccurate claims from the other party.
The long-term impact on your family
Resolving a car crash involving a teenager involves more than just fixing a dented bumper. How you manage the immediate aftermath and insurance filings affects your family's financial stability. A poorly managed claim leads to higher insurance premiums and unpaid medical bills. Taking control of the evidence and understanding your PIP coverage helps your teenager move past the crash without carrying unnecessary financial burdens.]]>On Behalf of Scott Goodwin Law P.C.<![CDATA[When minor vehicle damage can still lead to serious injury claims]]>https://www.1888goodwin.com/?p=499582026-06-30T03:20:04Z2026-06-30T03:20:04ZYou see the bumper. It barely shows a scratch. So you assume your body escaped the crash just fine, too. In Michigan, that assumption can cost you. Thousands of drivers walk away from low-speed crashes believing they're uninjured, only to feel pain hours or days later. By then, insurance adjusters have already started building a case against your claim, using your car's clean exterior as evidence that you couldn't possibly be hurt.
Your car and your body react differently
Cars absorb shock differently than people do. Modern bumpers crumple, flex and bounce back. Your spine, neck and joints don't work the same way. Even a slow-speed crash can jolt your body hard enough to strain muscles, pinch nerves or injure discs, even when the vehicle shows almost no damage.
Whiplash doesn't need a wreck
Whiplash happens when your head snaps forward and back faster than your neck muscles can handle. Doctors see this injury constantly after low-speed crashes. However, the pain often doesn't show up right away. You might feel fine on the day of the accident, then wake up the next morning unable to turn your head.
Michigan's no-fault law raises the stakes
Michigan handles car accidents differently than most states. Your own insurance company pays for your medical care through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, regardless of who caused the crash. But suing the other driver for pain and suffering takes more than a covered claim. You have to show a serious impairment of body function, and that standard hinges on your medical paperwork, not your repair bill. A barely-dented bumper won't bar a third-party claim, but you must prove an objectively manifested impairment that alters your capacity to live your normal life, which requires comprehensive medical documentation.
Insurance companies use small damage against you
Adjusters often point to a clean bumper as proof that you weren't really hurt. They argue that low repair costs mean low injury risk. This argument doesn't hold up medically, but it works on people who don't know better.
See a doctor even if you feel "mostly fine"
Don't wait for pain to confirm an injury before you get checked out. Adrenaline masks pain for hours or even days after a crash. On the other hand, a doctor can spot soft-tissue damage, concussions or spinal issues before they get worse. This visit also creates a medical record that protects your claim later.
Document everything right away
Take photos of both vehicles, write down how you feel and save every medical bill and report. These details build the case that proves your injury, even when the dent in your bumper barely tells a story.
Talk to a Michigan attorney before you settle
Don't let a small dent talk you out of a real injury. Insurance companies move fast to close claims cheaply. A Michigan personal injury attorney understands the state's no-fault rules and the serious impairment standard. They can review your PIP claim, calculate your real damages and push back against lowball offers. ]]>On Behalf of Scott Goodwin Law P.C.<![CDATA[Jobbie Nooner history and Lake St Clair boating tradition]]>https://www.1888goodwin.com/?p=499562026-06-22T09:43:00Z2026-06-22T09:33:27ZJobbie Nooner is a long-running summer boating gathering on Lake St. Clair in Michigan. You usually see it on the Friday before the Fourth of July weekend, when boaters gather near Gull Island for a day on the water. Over time, it has grown from a small local meet up into a widely known seasonal tradition that draws attention from across the region.
While the event often feels casual and festive, it also brings together large groups of boaters in a busy waterway. Because of that, you may notice a strong focus on boating awareness and shared responsibility among attendees.
How did Jobbie Nooner begin?
The event traces back to the early 1970s when boaters began gathering informally on the lake during the summer. What started as a relaxed day among friends gradually developed into a recognizable annual tradition. As participation increased, so did awareness around navigation, water safety and respectful use of shared spaces.Today, Jobbie Nooner still reflects that informal origin, even as it draws a much larger crowd than it did in its early years.
What may you expect on the water?
If you plan to attend or observe from nearby, you may see a mix of recreational boating and social activity. The environment can change quickly due to weather, traffic and crowd size, so preparation often plays an important role in having a safer experience.Common safety considerations include:
Maintaining awareness of surrounding boats and swimmers in crowded areas
Using proper life jackets for everyone on board
Following Michigan boating rules and navigation guidelines
These steps can help you stay mindful of changing conditions on the water while still enjoying the day.
How may legal awareness help boaters?
Events on public waterways often involve shared responsibility. In Michigan, boating laws may address issues such as reckless operation, alcohol use on vessels and injury risks that can arise during crowded events. Understanding these rules may help you avoid personal injuries or motor vehicle accidents while out on the lake.Scott Goodwin Law, focuses on personal injury matters and supports individuals who may have questions after motor vehicle accidents or injuries. If you or someone you know has concerns after a boating incident or related injury, the firm remains available to provide guidance and answer questions.
How can you enjoy the tradition responsibly?
Jobbie Nooner continues to be a recognizable part of Michigan summer culture. With the right awareness and preparation, you can take part in the experience while keeping safety in mind for yourself and others on the water.A fun day often goes more smoothly when you stay alert, plan ahead and respect shared boating spaces.]]>On Behalf of Scott Goodwin Law P.C.<![CDATA[How to talk to an aging parent about giving up driving]]>https://www.1888goodwin.com/?p=499552026-06-11T15:12:15Z2026-06-11T15:12:15ZFew conversations feel as personal as telling a parent that driving may no longer be safe. The keys can represent independence, pride, autonomy and control over daily life. Still, when missed turns, delayed reactions or recent scares start to raise concern, waiting for a crash can make a hard conversation even harder.
Start before the keys become the fight
The first conversation should not sound like a punishment or a sudden intervention. Start with concern, not control, and choose a quiet time when no one feels rushed or embarrassed. A parent may listen more openly when the discussion begins with what you have noticed, not with a demand for immediate surrender.
Use specific moments, not broad labels
General statements such as “you are too old to drive” can make a parent defensive because they sound personal and accusatory. Specific examples are harder to dismiss. Mention the time they drifted across a lane, got confused at a familiar intersection or almost missed a pedestrian in a Birmingham crosswalk.Those moments matter because a single mistake can lead to serious car crash injuries, especially when reaction time, vision, coordination or judgment has changed.
Keep independence in the plan
Giving up driving should not mean giving up the life your parent built. Before the conversation, think through rides to medical appointments, pharmacy runs, grocery trips, social events and family visits. If your parent sees a plan for staying active, the conversation may feel less like a loss of freedom.
Bring in a neutral voice
Some parents will not accept the concern from an adult child, even when the concern is fair. A doctor, eye specialist or driving rehabilitation professional may help frame the issue as an objective safety matter instead of a family argument.Michigan also has a formal process for reporting unsafe driver concerns. The state says age alone cannot support a request for evaluation, so families need to describe a medical episode, unsafe incident or pattern of behavior that raises a real safety issue.
Make the next step manageable
A parent may resist less if the first step feels temporary. Instead of pushing for an immediate and permanent stop, discuss limits such as no night driving, no freeway driving or no driving during winter weather. For some families, that incremental step opens the door to a bigger decision later.
Focus on safety without taking away dignity
This conversation can affect how your parent sees themselves, so tone matters. Lead with respect, stay factual and offer practical transportation options before asking for major changes. The goal is not to win an argument. It is to help someone you love stay safe while preserving as much independence and dignity as possible.]]>On Behalf of Scott Goodwin Law P.C.<![CDATA[4 hidden risks of traumatic brain injuries in a Michigan car crash]]>https://www.1888goodwin.com/?p=499352026-05-13T09:19:13Z2026-05-13T09:19:13ZWalking away from a car accident feeling okay might seem like good news. However, feeling fine does not always mean you escaped injury. Your body can hide serious injuries, especially in the immediate moments after a crash. The adrenaline that surges through your system can mask pain and other warning signs. Once that rush fades, hidden injuries can begin to surface. In fact, one of the most serious conditions to watch for is a traumatic brain injury.
What exactly is a traumatic brain injury?
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when a sudden jolt or impact disrupts normal brain function. In a Michigan car crash, your head may strike the steering wheel, dashboard or window. Even without direct contact, the violent force of a collision can cause your brain to shift inside your skull. TBIs can typically range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Hence, understanding what a TBI is helps you recognize why these injuries can be so easy to miss.
Four hidden TBI risks after a Michigan car crash
Knowing the risks of a TBI is the first step toward protecting yourself after a crash. Here are four hidden TBI risks that every Michigan car accident victim should understand:
Delayed onset: Symptoms may not appear for hours, days or even weeks after the accident, causing many survivors to initially assume they escaped injury.
Subtle cognitive deficits: TBIs can quietly affect your memory, concentration and mental processing, making it easy to overlook changes that interfere with your daily life.
Permanent long-term effects: Some TBI symptoms never fully resolve, potentially leading to chronic migraines, reduced earning capacity and a higher risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Insurance complications: Even under Michigan's no-fault system, insurers may downplay or deny claims for injuries that a doctor did not immediately diagnose or that show no visible signs.
These risks show that a TBI can affect more than just your health. They can also impact your finances and your ability to recover fair compensation. That is why knowing your legal rights matters just as much as seeking medical care.
Your health and future are worth protecting
A crash can change your life in ways you may not always notice right away. Taking your health seriously after an accident is the most important thing you can do for yourself and your future. Seeking a medical evaluation, keeping records of your symptoms and staying informed about your options can all make a meaningful difference. If questions arise about your situation, knowing that you can find guidance and support can give you the peace of mind you need to move forward with confidence.]]>On Behalf of Scott Goodwin Law P.C.<![CDATA[2026 Law Day Press Release]]>https://www.1888goodwin.com/?p=499332026-05-13T05:47:58Z2026-05-13T05:38:50ZRecord-Breaking Charity Returns: “The 40TH Annual Law Day Event.”
BIRMINGHAM – When a business holds a charitable event, that’s a good thing. When a business does it for 40 consecutive years, that’s remarkable! On SATURDAY, JUNE 13, attorney Scott Goodwin invites all of Metro Detroit to Michigan’s oldest and largest free Law Day Clinic and Family Fun Fair at the Goodwin Law Center in Birmingham, Michigan.It’s a family-friendly combo: Free legal advice for adults and free carnival fun for the kids—with bounce houses, prizes, and face-painting. Come hungry: Enjoy free pizza, hot dogs, and ice cream all day. Plus four BMX bikes will begiven away, along with Detroit Tiger tickets and hundreds of free bicycle safety helmets. Bonus: Appearances by Spider Man and Wonder Woman characters, plus Detroit Tigers “PAWS” mascot for photo opportunities. To celebrate this 40th Anniversary, Detroit recording artist Caleb Carroll will be performing live on stage. Law Day founder, Scott Goodwin, recalls how it all began: “Way back in 1986, I decided to give people—from all walks of life— free access to quality legal advice. I invited other like-minded attorneys and we held our first Law Day inside our offices. Since then, we’ve outgrown the space and now offer it outdoors. Folks of any age, income, or background can meet with top attorneys who specialize in various areas of the law, including: family, employment, criminal, personal injury, housing and more.” The event is now a respected tradition in the legal community. “Two dozen attorneys gladly volunteer their time,” says Goodwin. “This is free, confidential access to experienced lawyers who can help resolve issues and protect your rights. For 40 years it’s been our chance to honor the principles of equality, fairness and justice.” WMUZ radio (103.5 FM) is sponsoring the 40th Annual Law Day. Popular on-air hosts Tom Jordan, Bob Dutko, and Lorenzo Sewell will be broadcasting live—with Bob Dutko in a dunk tank! Hosts Val Monroe and J Sanford from sister station WCHB (1340 AM) will also appear, and all five personalities will be giving away prizes, books, music, tee-shirts and more!Law Day is free and open to the public Saturday, June 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Goodwin Law Center is at 999 Haynes in Birmingham, just south of Maple Road (15 Mile) and east of Woodward Avenue. Info at [nap_phone id="TOLL-FREE-CT-NUMBER-1"] or www.1888goodwin.comHonorable mentions: Attorney Scott Goodwin was named “Champion of Justice” in 2021 by the Michigan Association for Justice where he was president in 2014. A “Michigan Super Lawyer” every year since 2006, Scott was named “Lawyer of the Year” and “Hall of Fame” winner by Michigan Lawyer’s Weekly in 2024. ]]>On Behalf of Scott Goodwin Law P.C.<![CDATA[Why do people hurt in Michigan crashes file lawsuits?]]>https://www.1888goodwin.com/?p=499322026-04-18T19:19:49Z2026-04-18T19:19:49ZWhy is litigation often necessary?
Drivers can no longer count on their own policies if they waive high levels of no-fault PIP coverage. Some people, such as those with state medical insurance, can completely eliminate their no-fault coverage.
They may then lack adequate financial support if another driver causes a crash. While the state does now require liability indemnification coverage for injuries, Michigan still has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the country. People are at risk of getting hurt by a driver who does not have the minimum amount of coverage required by law.
Even if they do have minimum coverage, those with catastrophic injuries may find that their lifetime care expenses and lost wages go well beyond the coverage available through the at-fault driver’s insurance. Similarly, when crashes result in someone dying, surviving family members may struggle to cover all of their economic losses and may want to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit.
Reviewing policy information and crash details with a legal professional can be beneficial for those concerned about covering their expenses. Motor vehicle collisions can be much more costly than people may anticipate, and the parties at fault are the ones with the legal obligation to cover those costs.]]>
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